A Hedge Too Far   Network Rail is now enemy number one with many residents living just off Hanmore Road .

A well established hedge, which serves both as a visual barrier and a sound buffer from the railway line is new virtually removed for long stretches, between the old railway bridge and the scout hall.

The explanation given is that the hedge massacre is essential in order to allow erection of new railings along the length of the railway land.
The question one then asks is "why?" It is said that this is to increase track security because of youths accessing the track.

In over 20 years of living in Chineham, Martin Biermann says he has only ever once seen such an incursion. Compared with many other safety issues, one wonders why this is so urgent

What is plain is that anybody getting past the previously existing natural barrier will not be put off by the new railings. Weak links are bound to emerge. No wonder we have the highest rail ticket prices in Europe . This installation must be costing a fortune. Many residents have asked that the work be stopped. The problem is that like many large public and private organisations, Network Rail are a law onto themselves. Consultation, or at least advance notification are an inconvenience, so they just do what they like. In truth, since there are no trees with preservation orders on them, in legal terms, they are acting totally within their rights, (in the same way that we can do more-or-less what we like with our own gardens). Yes, it will take a good while, but the stumps left behind will regenerate in due course.